Friday, December 14, 2012

A crust eaten in peace is better than a banquet partaken in anxiety.- Aesop

Soon it'll be the 25th of December and the 1st of January, and I'm pretty sure most of you have already been meticulously planning their Christmas as well as New Year meals weeks if not months in advance. Whilst a majority of people are as organized as a five star soldier on a critical mission and ready to throw a memorable party, a small minority of "flunkees" like me are still scratching their heads and trying to figure out what they could possibly serve their guests on D Day (in my case, there will be no visitors coming over for lunch or supper, so that simplifies things considerably, but I still want to prepare a scrumptious dinner for my birthday and the year's end). Unpreparedness always generates a lot of anxiety, thus we generally start freaking out at the prospect of hosting the celebrations and the immense pressure that comes together with that makes us run around spaztically like headless chickens on psychedelic drugs. Not a pretty sight if you ask me!So, whether you are a big fan of those festivities or a rebel soul like me (either an anti-consumerist, a nonreligious individual or a heathen) with a soft spot for bouncy bashes, I have no doubt that you don't want to let your chaotic lack of method, explosive anxiety and procrastinative attitude get in the way and spoil the fete.

We all want to have a bedazzling and
richly decorated table graced with lots of mouthwatering dishes and spend
some valuable moments with those who hold a special place in our hearts, hence there is no way we want our family reunion or social gathering to get ruined by our disastrous and incompetent planning. This is why, in order to avoid panic attacks, unnecessary drama, last-minute breakdowns and seeing your risk of having a heart failure rise, I thought that I'd share with you my holiday recipe roundup which I have minutiously compiled here for your comfort.Hopefully it'll come in handy, take some weight off your shoulders and help you reduce your stress level. Who knows? You might very well find something interesting
and save some precious time by creating a menu which you have put together thanks this post. Take it
easy and don't wrack your brains, it's not worth endagering your health for a few hours of short-lived joy - nobody will express their gratitude if you end up in the emergency departement.

What a big list of great recipes! I love that Aesop quote, its so true. I would rather eat a grilled cheese by myself than a big spread with bad company. I have social anxiety though so... I would probably always prefer less anxiety.

You have comprehensive list here Rosa! And oh my gosh, I want to hop on the plane and visit you. I know I'd forget about everything and can breathe and relax...despite this busy holiday season! Gorgeous photos~~~~~!

Hi RosaWow...this recipe list is looking Wonderful and I'm loving it so much. t is looking so good with all the lovely pictures and write up as well. I have been here after a while but enjoyed scrolling through your rest of the wonderful recipes. Have a wonderful week ahead and happy holidays !!!Thanks & Regards, Sonia !!!

Ahh, I always love looking through your holiday list, it all sounds so amazing, and the photos of the snowy alps are so very gorgeous! Over here in Northern California, our winter weather is just raining a bit and a little chilly. Happy holidays to you Rosa!

Rosa, your photos today are totally amazing. So lovely.I only have to do brunch this year...and everyone gets mad when I change my traditional menu. So I'm stuck. But I sure loved reading through your ideas!

These pictures are stunning Rosa. Did you take them? I agree about the anxiety bit! I like to plan.. I am a planner. I will have everything worked out by Christmas it is just a matter of working it out. Thanks for the tips!

Rosa i feel as though i ve eaten a seven course meal after i read your post... Mon dieu what patience you have!!! and the pictures aww what can i say Rosa? You have the aptitude to bring forth heaven to my eyes

What an amazing round-up of holiday treats and your photos are just stunning. They get better and better even though they're always beautiful and I think there's no way they can get any better since they're perfection :)

Rosa, What a great (and super helpful) list of recipes!And I love your shots of the snowy mountains. I go years without seeing any snow and I do miss that magical sparkle.Wishing you very very happy holidays.xxooE

A truly beautiful post in every way, Rosa. I completely agree with you about the materialism that has come to become so closely affiliated with Christmas in our society...and I love that quote from Dr. Seuss! One of my favorites, actually. :)